Blog Archives
University of Hard Knocks
Have you ever pondered upon the profound questions of why you are here, where you fit in, what you are born to do, what gift you are born to give? In other words, have you figured out your contribution to the world, the grand tapestry of life, and the symphony of human civilization?
In moments of introspection during his retirement years, Rolland felt as if he had unwittingly ‘wandered in the desert’ for 40 years (1975-2015 or 1980-2020). Yet, in hindsight, his life’s purpose was, at some pivotal points in his career -unbeknownst to him- already staring him in the face. He just failed to appreciate and recognize, much earlier, his life’s true purpose. In essence, the author failed to ‘bloom’ where God had already planted him!
If you are a teen or young adult -but especially if you are an immigrant or a member of a minority group- on a quest for your life’s purpose, this book was written for you. It’s a self-help guide outlining practical steps you can use to find and crystallize your life’s true purpose … sooner, rather than 40 years later!
If you follow the guidance contained in this book, you would hopefully avoid the shame and ultimate embarrassment of a lifetime which befell the book’s author: ‘wandering in the desert for forty years’ without constancy to purpose, to the abject dismay of his humdrum biography.
This book is also a clarion call for all citizens, especially immigrants and minorities, to say GOODBYE to apathy and indifference and, instead, to say HELLO to active participation and involvement in an ailing American democracy.
In these extraordinary times, sitting on the sidelines is simply unacceptable. Do you have a definite purpose? What does it mean for you –with your distinct set of skills, knowledge, passions, and talents– to be here in America at this particular moment in time?
The answers lie within you, waiting for you to bring them to light. May you embrace your uniqueness and align your actions with your deepest strengths, values, and aspirations … so you can experience a deep sense of fulfillment of your life’s purpose.
Yes, You Matter asserts that self-reflection is essential for understanding oneself and living to one’s fullest potential. What inspired you to write this book?
My realization, upon retirement that I failed to ‘bloom where I was planted’ inspired me to write this book. You see, upon retirement, I felt a great sense of regret and guilt when I came face to face with the reality that –having been blessed by the Almighty with the great fortune of life in America, a safe haven and comfortable refuge from the clutches of a burgeoning dictatorship I fled decades ago– I did NOT live my life with a constancy to purpose. With no definiteness of purpose, I, therefore, failed to fulfill my life’s true purpose … I failed to make it in America despite an environment of unparalleled freedom and opportunity for immigrants in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave! In hindsight, my successes in the CPA profession and in local electoral politics did not measure up to my true potential.
My intent in writing this book is simple: To be of service, to pass on the key lessons I learned from the University of Hard Knocks so that readers don’t end up ‘wandering in the desert for 40 years’ without definiteness of purpose’ like I did, to the abject dismay of my humdrum biography.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
For me, out of the whole book, the hardest thing to write about was the discussion on Chapter 4, “Passion and Purpose: Are They the Same?” I had to discuss the twin topics of passion and purpose from the intellectual and practical vantage points to be helpful to the reader. With no formal training in psychology or philosophy, Chapter 4 really challenged me.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from Yes, You Matter?
The pursuit of purpose can be met with challenges and uncertainties. The expectations of others, the pressures of society, and the fear of failure can cloud your vision and divert you from your true path. In such moments, it becomes essential to quiet the outside noise and listen to your heart’s whispers. Allow your intuition and inner wisdom to guide you, for they are the compass that will lead you toward your purpose. Embrace your uniqueness, nurture your passions, and step forward with courage and conviction.
Can readers look forward to seeing more from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, despite health issues, I’m working on a few more books on the twin topics of K-12 education and American democracy.
Author Website
This book was born out of a great sense of regret and guilt which the author felt after he had retired, when he came face to face with the reality that he –blessed by the Almighty with the great fortune of life in America, a safe and comfortable refuge from the clutches of a burgeoning dictatorship he fled decades ago– had failed to fulfill his life’s purpose, despite an environment of freedom and opportunity for immigrants in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave! In moments of introspection during his retirement years, the author felt as if he had unwittingly ‘wandered in the desert’ for 40 years. Yet, In hindsight, his life’s purpose was, at some pivotal points in his career, already staring him in the face. He just failed to appreciate and recognize his life’s true purpose. The author failed to ‘bloom’ where God had already planted him!
If you are a teen or young adult, an immigrant, or a member of a minority group on a quest for your life’s purpose, this book was written for you. It’s a self-help guide outlining practical steps you can use to find and crystallize your life’s true purpose … sooner, rather than later.
Hopefully, this book can help the reader avoid the shame and ultimate embarrassment of a lifetime which befell the book’s author: ‘wandering in the desert for forty years’ without constancy to purpose, without definiteness of purpose, to the abject dismay of his humdrum biography.
This book is also a clarion call for all citizens, especially immigrants, and minorities, to say GOODBYE to apathy and indifference and, instead, to say HELLO to active participation and involvement in an ailing American democracy. Whatever suits you, in these extraordinary times, sitting on the sidelines is simply unacceptable. What does it mean for you –with your distinct set of skills, knowledge, passions, and talents– to be here in America at this particular moment in time?
The answers lie within you, waiting for you to bring them to light. May you embrace your uniqueness and align your actions with your deepest strengths, values, and aspirations … so you can experience a deep sense of fulfillment of your life’s purpose.
Yes, You Matter … Your Purpose Awaits You!
In Yes, You Matter, Rolland B. presents a compelling guide for personal growth and self-discovery, exploring the depths of human potential. Central to the book’s thesis is the belief that self-reflection is crucial to avoid stagnation and to continuously evolve in understanding oneself. By asking challenging existential questions, the book doesn’t just ponder life’s mysteries but also propels readers to critically assess their own existence and life choices.
The author skillfully intertwines philosophical concepts, psychological theories, and spiritual insights to create a robust framework for readers. Drawing on Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the Japanese concept of Ikigai, and the Greek philosophy of Eudaimonia, Rolland B. constructs a multi-faceted approach towards finding and nurturing one’s purpose. The book’s practicality is one of its strengths, offering actionable exercises and strategies to help readers build self-worth, confront self-doubt, and follow their passions with conviction. Rolland B.’s encouraging tone is another highlight of the book. He engages readers with empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of struggle, making the journey of self-discovery feel like a communal experience. This approach makes the book not only informative but also deeply relatable. The author’s real-life experiences with societal pressures, self-doubt, and challenging relationships lend authenticity and depth to his guidance, positioning him as a credible and experienced voice on the subject. The book’s nuanced handling of sensitive topics, such as ethnicity and toxic relationships, is noteworthy. The author navigates these subjects with care and insight, reflecting his deep understanding and experience in self-reflection. The use of metaphors adds an element of elegance and further depth to the narrative.
Yes, You Matter is an inspiring call to action in a world often dominated by social media trends and the threat of conformity. It’s a book that not only encourages self-assessment and personal growth but also champions the importance of charting one’s unique path in life. With its blend of philosophical depth, practical advice, and empathetic tone, the book stands as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand themselves better and forge a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Pages: 230 | ASIN : B0CTWHW6TS
Your REAL Life: Get Authentic, Be Resilient, Make it Count
In Your REAL Life: Get Authentic, Be Resilient, Make it Count, Nathan Andres delves into the essence of authenticity and resilience, drawing upon the iconic words of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, “To thine own self be true.” Andres’s work emerges as a compelling guide, not unlike a modern-day manual, exploring the necessity of resilience in confronting life’s challenges.
The narrative is rooted in Andres’s personal experiences, lending it an authenticity that resonates deeply with the reader. He skillfully intertwines these experiences with a broader examination of universal challenges, providing a lens through which the omnipresence of adversity and the lurking shadow of impostor syndrome are viewed. The book emphasizes how one’s response to life’s “little bumps” can dictate the trajectory of their journey, either propelling them forward or holding them back. Andres lays out the multifaceted nature of challenges in a candid, matter-of-fact manner, compelling readers to confront and understand these difficulties. This clarity, combined with a holistic grasp of the subject, establishes the book as both insightful and accessible.
The author offers not just narrative and theory but also practical exercises and reflective prompts. These tools underscore his commitment to aiding personal growth and highlight the importance of authenticity in a world where the term is often used superficially. Andres’s writing style is noteworthy for its simplicity, yet it never compromises the depth and richness of the content. The book strikes a fine balance between being relatable and inspiring, intertwining personal anecdotes with valuable lessons. It guides readers through various life scenarios, from mundane daily decisions to significant career choices, underscoring the transformative power of resilience and self-awareness.
In essence, Nathan Andres has crafted a work that goes beyond mere literature. It stands as a tool for personal growth, offering readers not only insights but also practical methods to navigate through life’s complexities with authenticity and resilience at their core.
Pages: 260 | ASIN : B0C3DSMKSK
A Masterpiece Life
Whose Life Are You Living?: Finding and Living Your Unique Purpose offers a compelling exploration of personal identity and truth through the lens of Christianity. Why was this an important book for you to write?
God loves each of us so personally that He created us with unique and incredible kingdom identities and missions. His passion is for us to experience every aspect of this life. He has transferred this passion into the very depth of my being and, through decades, has made it my life’s primary mission. Many Christians have been distracted into living an average Christian life. This results in one of life’s greatest tragedies as these individuals leave earth with much of God’s unique and incredible life left caged within. They have experienced but a shadow of all He design. God’s heart (and mine) is broken by this loss. Through Whose Life Are You Living? God offers a personalized, ever-deepening biblical journey for finding and fully experiencing His irreplaceable life of walking in His Spirit. Being obedient, permitting Him to write this book through me, and supporting others in finding His transformations through it is “life” for me.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
- God loves you more that you could ask or think. He loves you right where we are with no conditions.
- God designed a unique and incredible, masterpiece life for you. It is embraced only by walking in His Spirit.
- Biblical salvation is found only through Christ. Religion and traditions have deceived many wonderful individuals.
- The importance of learning to surrender all control of our lives to God’s Spirit is second, only to salvation. This is “Walking in the Spirit.”
- “Walking in the Spirit” is Christian life as God designed it. Without this we are living powerless imitations.
- Mankind can only understand God and His Bible through the “Revelation” of His Spirit. Learn the difference between Revelation Knowledge and Head Knowledge
- God created mankind as three-part beings: spirit, soul (mind, will, emotions), and body. We are to live under the loving control of God’s Spirit, who communicates through our spirit.
- Our journeys with God are not about perfection, but about our love for Him and the purity of our heart’s intent.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
The greatest impact on my writing resulted from learning to permit God’s Spirit to be fully in charge of every aspect of developing this book. He had been teaching me this through daily living, but now I knew I was incapable of glorifying Him through my own writing efforts. From the moment I said, “Yes,” until the final revision of the manuscript, His Spirit lovingly and creatively revealed when I was taking control. At first I felt defeated by how frequently this happened. He has taught me to be thrilled because the closer I walk with Him, the more clearly I hear Him ask me to return control to Him and walk this life (permit Him to write this book) as He designed. I have learned to deeply enjoy the many ways that He lovingly and laughingly asks, “Who is in charge now?” The title, Whose Life Are You Living?, was birthed through these uplifting encounters. It is a constant and loving dynamic in my daily walk with God. Most readers find it becomes the same refreshingly personal dynamic in their lives. I believe this book was written by His Spirit, though it is not inerrant. He will continue to impact the way I write.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Whose Life Are You Living?
God has unique and incredible masterpiece lives for each of us, and these are experienced only by those who learn to walk in God’s Spirit, instead of their flesh. There are many biblical steps in our journeys of maturing in this life. God is using this book as one means of bring His revelation of these steps and His Spirit’s related transformations into the lives of each reader.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
How might that life be different than the average Christian’s life?
Jesus invites you to walk with Him through this biblical adventure of awakening to life as the unique masterpiece He designed. Regardless of your situation, He is calling you to “Come and See” who He truly is, who you truly are in His eyes, and how He always has more of Himself to live in and through you. Living Christ’s life raises you to the heights to know the love of Christ that you may be filled with all the fullness of God (Eph 3:19). You no longer attempt to act like Christ. He transforms you and works in and through you by His Spirit to accomplish His will through His authority and power.
God’s life and missions become your primary focus, and your actions, faith, and prayers align with His. You are no longer torn by conflicting expectations of surrounding crowds. You live the empowered reality of Ephesians 2:20 – I have been crucified with Christ: it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me, and will transition from this life into heaven with none of His masterpiece life left caged within.
Whose Life Are You Living? does not present formulas, rules, or religious behaviors to copy. It offers a personal journey with the Holy Spirit. Together you consider His revelations of biblical truths and determine whose life you will live.
Whose Life Are You Living?
Curt P. Martin’s Whose Life Are You Living?: Finding and Living Your Unique Purpose offers a compelling exploration of personal identity and truth through the lens of Christianity. This thoughtfully structured book is divided into five parts, each guiding the reader through a journey of faith and self-discovery. Martin challenges the reader to move beyond passive observance to actively living a life dedicated to God, emphasizing the distinction between nominal Christianity and a life deeply rooted in Christ’s teachings.
While the book’s focus on faith precludes a traditional analysis of its structure, its clear and purposeful chapter organization effectively reinforces its central message. My personal encounter with the book, coinciding with the holiday season, provided a fresh perspective on my Orthodox Christian upbringing. It prompted a deeper reflection on holiday traditions, religion, and the sacredness of community gatherings in church. Martin’s work invites diverse interpretations, recognizing that faith is a deeply personal subject. The book resonated with me, enhancing my appreciation for my family and the life I’ve built. It acknowledges the myriad choices and questions young people face in the modern world, highlighting the role of faith in shaping character and guiding decisions.
Although primarily aimed at Christians, Whose Life Are You Living? has something to offer to a broader audience, including those with an open mind towards faith. The book might not alter deeply held beliefs, but it certainly offers a fresh perspective, enriching one’s understanding of faith in the context of contemporary life.
Pages: 400 | ASIN : B0CJTWDNF4
One Size Does Not Fit All
In Rise of the Warrior Leader, you provide a complete breakdown of the challenges faced on the journey to becoming an effective leader in today’s world. Why was this an important book for you to write?
During my time in the unforgiving environment of the military and international banking, I devoted significant effort to unraveling the intricacies of effective leadership. Transitioning from the military to the banking sector amid the sub-prime crisis, an era marked by relentless waves of job losses, presented a daunting scenario. It was, undoubtedly, an inopportune time to embark on this career shift.
Amidst this tumultuous period, my exploration of leadership literature revealed two notable observations. First and foremost, a multitude of self-proclaimed leadership experts ardently championed their own leadership models, often motivated by financial gains or fixated on singular lessons drawn from crises such as the infamous Enron scandal. This compartmentalized approach operated in isolation from other models, creating a fragmented landscape. However, I recognized that each model offered a valuable fragment of the overall leadership puzzle.
Secondly, I observed the diverse interpretations provided by commentators regarding the era we live in—whether it be labeled as the Information Age, Industry 4.0, Digital Age, and so forth. In response, I chose to shift my focus towards embracing the challenges intrinsic to each of these definitions. I sought to discern patterns across various leadership models, thereby crafting an integrated approach geared towards enhancing leaders’ effectiveness.
In essence, the new challenges that confront us demand a new approach. I am committed to synthesizing the collective wisdom embedded in diverse leadership models to construct a comprehensive framework. This holistic perspective is intended to empower leaders to navigate the complexities of our ever-evolving landscape with newfound efficacy.
Can you tell us a little about the research process required to write Rise of the Warrior Leader?
Originally conceived as my doctoral thesis, this book emerged after a four-year journey of intermittently refining my PhD proposal. The process involved numerous revisions dictated by a university professor whose demands seemed ceaseless. However, amidst the stringent adjustments during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown, a revelation struck me. I realized that the essence of my work deserved to be presented as intended, free from the constraints imposed by the academic conformity sought by the professor.
The underlying premise was clear: the conventional approach needed a paradigm shift, and the insights gleaned from my research should be accessible to benefit others. Distinctive in its departure from the confines of academic literature, this book is the embodiment of that conviction. It draws on exhaustive examinations of academic papers and prominent leadership books.
The content within attains a high academic standard, yet I have endeavored to supplement it with easily comprehensible diagrams, catering to a non-academic audience. This dual approach aims not only for scholarly excellence but also ensures that the material is inviting and readily applicable to a broader readership, ultimately contributing to the betterment of humanity.
What is one thing you hope readers will take away from your book?
I aim to equip leaders with a comprehensive conceptual framework for navigating various situations. This book serves as an empowering tool, steering away from offering rigid, one-size-fits-all solutions. Recognizing our unique individualities and nuanced responses based on distinct personality traits, the book instead furnishes a guiding framework. This framework facilitates a thoughtful consideration of diverse variables and contexts, fostering an approach that enhances effectiveness in leadership.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
My forthcoming book will explore the subject of Mental Toughness from a distinctly African perspective. The genesis of this project dates back over six years. However, I temporarily redirected my focus two years ago, taking a sabbatical to diligently finalize my previous work, Rise of the Warrior Leader.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
This book is for you if you:
·Want to be an effective leader.
·Are willing to transform into the change you wish to see.
·Are committed to improving the lives of those you lead.
If this sounds like you and you are willing to do what it takes, you are invited to take an inner journey of self-reflection. Self-reflection is critical for leadership development. In the process, improve your personal and professional life and discover practical tools to:
Increase mental resilience – These unpredictable times place more demands on people mentally, emotionally, spiritually and possibly even physically. This is the ‘new norm’ for which mental resilience is essential.
Build a sense of trust and safety – Unlike mainstream leadership literature which tends to focus mainly on the vision of the leader, this book also focuses on the leader’s ability to build trust and provide a sense of ‘safety’ by ‘holding the space’ in these times of VUCA.
Inspire Ownership-driven Leadership – The Selfless Leader sees the Collective as fellow stakeholders. In times of crisis, ‘self-preservation’ for the Selfless Leader is ‘collective preservation’, seeing the people as an extension of oneself. This book enables a sense of Ownership for you to:
Own who you are. Own the mission. Own the result.
Own who you are. Own the mission. Own the result.
Rise of the Warrior Leader
In an ever-evolving world, there’s a pressing need for individuals to adapt and evolve. Rise of the Warrior Leader dives deep into the intricacies of leadership within this modern backdrop. Author Claudio Chistè insightfully navigates through three predominant themes: the Age of Globalization, the Information Age, and the VUCA era (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous). The book delves into the escalating uncertainties, especially against economic, environmental, political, and pandemic backdrops. There’s a keen emphasis on the shifting role of leaders in our knowledge-driven economy and a compelling discourse on contemporary phenomena like the “cancel culture” on social media.
A compelling read for those with a penchant for leadership and modern world dynamics, Rise of the Warrior Leader provides a rich intellectual experience. Chistè presents a reader-friendly text. The incorporation of historical references amplifies the current context, while data-driven insights add credibility to the discourse. What stands out is the book’s interdisciplinary lens—tapping into history, economics, and technology, providing a comprehensive viewpoint of the challenges ushered in by the Information Age and global shifts. Furthermore, Chistè courageously examines topical issues like deep fakes, fake news, and the transformative role of technology, making the narrative both current and resonant.
Rich in analytical content, Rise of the Warrior Leader adheres to an objective, fact-centric tone, catering mainly to those intrigued by the nuances of contemporary leadership. It aspires to unravel the multifaceted challenges leaders confront in today’s fast-paced world, offering pragmatic insights on steering through these hurdles. Indeed, this is a discussion-worthy read, perfect for intellectual engagements and networking events.
Rise of the Warrior Leader explores a vast range of topics with depth and finesse. Thoroughly researched and brimming with invaluable insights, it addresses pivotal leadership transitions in today’s global scenario. Claudio Chistè’s creation stands as an enlightening resource for those keen on understanding leadership in the digital era. Engaging and illuminating, it’s a book that’s sure to spark enriching conversations.
Pages 238 | ISBN : 978-1991219794
The Self-Love Path: How to Embrace Self-Compassion and Kindness to Yourself and Achieve Your Goals
Embracing self-love is one of the most profound gifts we can offer ourselves. While many master the art of showing compassion to others, turning that kindness inward often remains a challenge. The Self-Love Path, by Ariane S. Turpin, is a compelling guide that underscores the power of self-compassion and its undeniable link to personal success and fulfillment.
The narrative starts with a deep dive into the symbiotic relationship between self-compassion, motivation, and goal attainment. Drawing from robust research, Turpin asserts that individuals with self-compassion often exhibit heightened motivation, reduced lethargy, and superior long-term achievement. The inclusion of psychologist Susan David’s insights further enriches the content, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging challenging thoughts and feelings for personal growth.
What sets The Self-Love Path apart is its actionable content. Readers are equipped with hands-on exercises and invaluable advice to nurture self-compassion and align their pursuits with core values. Turpin addresses hindrances like negative self-talk and introduces strategies to counteract these barriers. The book’s introduction of the Kanban method, a proven productivity technique, is particularly notable. This approach helps streamline workflows and keep readers focused on their objectives.
Turpin’s personal journey is peppered throughout the book. Her battles with self-doubt and the weight of external expectations add a layer of authenticity, making her message resonate deeply. Her empathetic and motivational tone, paired with her lucid writing, makes the content both relatable and accessible, even for those less familiar with self-help genres.
The Self-Love Path is an essential compass for anyone seeking to bolster their self-compassion, enrich personal growth, and realize their aspirations. Through Ariane S. Turpin’s guidance, readers are poised to transform their self-perception, fortifying their resilience and self-kindness in the quest for true success.
Pages: 168 | ISBN : 978-1998099023
LITERARY TITAN 